After the conclusion of the SEA Games 33, the Vietnam U22 men’s team were given a short break to spend time with their families. On December 23, the squad reconvened under the name Vietnam U23 to prepare for the continental finals.

The team is expected to undergo some personnel changes compared with the SEA Games squad, but the core group that secured the gold medal in Thailand is set to remain the backbone as Vietnam target the Asian tournament.

On December 26, Vietnam U23 will travel to Qatar for a training camp, with one friendly match against Syria U23 planned before the team flies to Saudi Arabia on January 1, 2026. The schedule is designed to allow the players sufficient time to adapt to the climate and time zone ahead of competition.

Speaking about Vietnam U23’s objectives at the tournament, head coach Kim Sang Sik said, “At the AFC U23 Asian Cup, there are no easy opponents. With the confidence gained from recent competitions, Vietnam U23 can achieve good results. Our goal is to perform well in the group stage and progress deep into the tournament.”

At the AFC U23 Asian Cup 2026, Vietnam U23 have been drawn in Group A alongside Jordan U23, hosts Saudi Arabia U23 and Kyrgyzstan U23.

Vietnam U23 narrowly lose to Qatar U23 in another Abu Dhabi friendly

VOV.VN - Vietnam U23 lost 2-3 to Qatar U23 in a tightly contested friendly match during their ongoing training camp in Abu Dhabi, UAE, on October 13.